God's Plan and Timing...WOW!!

For the past couple of weeks, I have felt an urgency to leave the Williams' house and move out into the world.  There were several reasons that I felt this way, but the most pressing was the upcoming surgery on Alan's foot, scheduled for Monday the 7th.  I wanted to give the family the space and freedom to deal with the surgery 100% worry free (outside of the surgery itself, of course).  Unfortunately, I just don't have the income that I need to rent an apartment.  Regardless, Alan got me connected with a buddy that has a garage apartment that he would be willing to rent out to me for a discounted price and a flexible lease schedule.  Although it doesn't have a kitchen, it would work as a temporary home until I am able to rent a better, more permanent place.  I made plans to meet with this guy and talk about renting for Sunday afternoon.  This is where it gets really interesting.

Sunday morning, I woke up after a wonderful slumber party with some high school girls.  We all ended up going to the first service, which is usually not my preference.  I waltzed in not really knowing anyone in the service and I picked a seat.  Right before the service started a lady sat down and we began talking.

"Good morning! My name is Jill.  Its so good to see you here this morning.  Are you new here?"

"Hi! I'm Charissa.  Well I actually moved here about a month and a half ago from Indiana."

"So do you have any family here?"

"No, I'm here by myself."

"Well, I want to give you something."  She pulled out a business card and excitedly began sharing her information. "When my son went off to college, there was a lady that gave him her information and told him to call her anytime he needed anything and she meant it.  No matter the situation, she wanted to help him out and I was so encouraged that a stranger would do that.  It was very encouraging to know that my son would be taken care of by a 'second mom.'  So I want to do the same for you.  Since you are so far away from family, I want you to know that if you need anything at all; hair salon, doctors, a second job, whatever; just give me a call and I will help you out."

"Wow, I don't know what to say.  Thank you, I really appreciate that."

"So darlin...what do you need?" (Jill smiled boldly)

I'm absolutely crazy, because the only thing I could think to ask this generous and kind lady was a reference for a dermatologist in the area.  "I have been struggling the past year with some suspicious moles that I just really need to get taken care of.  With skin cancer in my family history, I shouldn't be taking a chance.  Is there a good dermatologist that you could recommend?"

Jill proceeded to go on and on about her wonderful dermatologist.  She gave me all the information I needed and then church began.  While I was sitting there with my notes during the sermon about "Don't Worry," I began to make a short list to hand Jill afterwards.  Things like a second job, an affordable apartment, and some time to just hang out and get to know her better.  She seemed really awesome and I didn't want to pass up a chance on friendship and wisdom.  At the end of church, I handed her the list and we began talking again.  At that point in time, I really can't remember how the conversation went to where it did, but what I do know is that God was in it. 

"Girl, you need to save your money.  Move in with me!"

"Are you serious?" (I just met this lady an hour ago and I'm seriously considering moving into her home...what is happening here?)

"Yes, very serious! So when are you moving in?  We'll be home today if you're not busy."

"Oh my goodness! This is crazy!" (by this time, I was crying.  I just couldn't believe that at the exact moment I needed a new place, that God would provide in such a crazy way!) 

Several hugs and tears later we were parting ways at the door of the church.  I went home and packed up half of my things and headed to my new home.  It took me two loads to get all of my stuff transported but it was a smooth transition.  I left the Williams family to their family who were arriving that evening.  The surgery went well on Monday, but things are still complicated and I can see how important my move was.  They no longer have to worry about feeding me and keeping up with me.  All they have to deal with is the next steps in the surgery process.  This whole move was an answer to prayer for three parties; the Williams, Jill, and me. 

The funniest part to me was after Jill and I had made the decision about my move, she turned to her husband and introduced me and informed him that I would be moving in that afternoon.  There was no discussion.  It made me smile.  I'm still overwhelmed by the amazingness of the whole situation.  I never could have imagined anything this awesome.  God's timing was perfect and His plan was unique and filled His children with awe!  Who could ask for anything better?  I serve a great God who always provides for the needs of ALL of His children!! He has proven His power and love once again in an inspiring and bewildering way!! I love Him!! :D

The Sunset this evening at my new house! :)